According to the American Botanical Council, consumer use of herbs
and medicinal plant products in the United States over the past two
decades has become a mainstream phenomenon. Herbs and
phytomedicines which are medicines compounded from botanicals
have become one of the fastest growing segments in retail
pharmacies, supermarkets and other mass market outlets. Herbal
products are being considered for use by some managed care
organizations. There is no appropriate regulatory mechanism to
address the safety and efficacy of herbal products in the United
States. In the past, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has
expressed concern that herbal remedies may be worthless and
potentially dangerous. Medicinal and health professionals differ in
opinions regarding the safety, efficacy and appropriate use of
medicinal herbs. In this relatively regulatory-free environment, how
can we determine our natural products are safe and functional?
Suggested answers using validated examples will be presented.
Bio:
Howard Epstein is currently Director of Technology and Business
Development at EMD Chemicals, Inc., Gibbstown, New Jersey. He
recently completed his research for a Ph.D., his dissertation entitled
“A Melanocyte Cell Culture Model to Assess the Ability of Two
Botanicals to Stimulate Melanization and Provide Protection
from UVB Irradiation.” He has been active in the cosmetics industry
for many years and is currently serving as Editor of the Journal of
Cosmetic Science. In addition he is an editorial board
member of the journal SKINmed and on the Board of Directors of
the International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology (IACD).
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